The Missionary Sheriff
 Being incidents in the life of a plain man who tried to do his duty

by Octave Thanet

"The Missionary Sheriff" by Octave Thanet is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story revolves around Sheriff Amos Wickliff, a plain and honorable man who navigates the complexities of morality and duty within his role. As he interacts with various characters, including a troubled young man named Ned Paisley, themes of compassion, redemption, and the societal challenges of the time begin to unfold. The opening of the novel introduces Sheriff Wickliff as he observes local boy soldiers during a parade, reflecting on his position of authority and influence within the community. His character is depicted as large and imposing, yet kind-hearted—particularly in his dealings with the inmates of the jail, including the swindler Ned Paisley. The sheriff discovers a photograph belonging to Paisley that sparks sympathy in him for the young man's mother. As the narrative progresses, Sheriff Wickliff aims to shield her from the truth about her son’s life of crime and the realities of the justice system. The opening establishes the sheriff’s dual role as a law enforcer and a compassionate man determined to do right by those in his care.